A Life of Faith, Learning, and Service
I am Dr. Thahira Iqbal, a retired medical practitioner by profession and a lifelong student of Islam by passion. For much of my medical career, I served people in matters of health, but in my heart, I was always drawn toward deeper questions of faith and the struggles within my community, particularly the challenges faced by Muslim women.
Over the years, I observed many misconceptions being carried in the name of Islam. These misunderstandings not only clouded the beauty of our faith but also created unnecessary hardships. This realization became a turning point in my life. I felt compelled to seek answers directly from the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.<
For over 40 years, I dedicated myself to studying the Qur’an and authentic Hadith with sincerity and consistency. My goal was to understand whether Islam is merely a book of morals and rituals or a comprehensive way of life that addresses both our spiritual and worldly needs.
Through this journey, I discovered that the Qur’an is not just a book of guidance for the Hereafter, it is a complete law and framework for living. It offers timeless solutions to human struggles, guiding us toward justice, peace, balance, and dignity in this world, as well as eternal success in the next.
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My Works
My writings are the humble fruits of these decades of reflection, research, and learning. In them, I strive to share the clarity and wisdom I have found in the Qur’an and Sunnah. My aim is to present Islam not as distant or rigid, but as a faith of compassion, mercy, and timeless relevance.
Several of my books are now taught in schools, helping young students understand Islam through authentic and practical insights. It brings me deep joy to know that these works are shaping young minds with a love for truth and understanding.
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Service and Teaching
My journey has also been one of service. I have been part of the Federation of Muslim Women Associations in Tamil Nadu, where I spent years visiting underprivileged communities and teaching women and children Islamic etiquette and the values of daily life. I also taught in Islamic schools, guiding students through the phonetic method of Arabic letters and the basics of Tawheed.
Today, I continue to serve as a senior adviser to the federation and as an executive committee member of the MES Women’s Wing in Chennai. Alongside my writing, I also deliver lectures and talks, encouraging reflection, learning, and faith-based empowerment.
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Formal Islamic Studies
At the age of 64, I took a formal step into Islamic scholarship by enrolling in the Islamic Online University, University of The Gambia. Over the next eight years, I completed both my Bachelor’s (BAIS) and Master’s (MAIS) degrees in Islamic Studies. This academic journey deepened my understanding and helped me distinguish between authentic and unauthentic narrations. It also reinforced my sense of responsibility to approach every subject with discipline, sincerity, and scholarly care.
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Continuing the Journey
Even after retiring from medicine, I feel blessed to continue healing, this time, through words and understanding. My focus now lies in ongoing research, writing, and outreach, highlighting how the Qur’an and Sunnah remain relevant to every challenge of our times.
This journey has never been about me. It’s about giving back to the Ummah in whatever way I can, sharing what I’ve learned, hoping it helps someone find clarity or peace. I pray that Allah accepts my small efforts and lets them be of benefit to others.
I’d Love to Hear From You
Knowledge grows when shared. Reach out with your questions or reflections.